Internship Spotlight: Rob McKinney

This summer, Rob McKinney, junior sports broadcasting and sports information major, learned exactly what it meant to work in the news business.

The news industry has a history of early mornings that start well before 9 a.m. This is the time during which McKinney thrives in action. He began interning with WJPA Radio Station in Washington, Pennsylvania, in May 2016.

McKinney’s title as news reporter led him to covering a variety of events. He covered Washington County council meetings and different trials. He also worked Saturday morning news.

“I went into the station at 3:30 a.m. and read the day’s updated news every top of the hour,” said McKinney. “My favorite experience thus far was my first Saturday morning by myself.”

McKinney noted that he may have made his share of mistakes, but learned quickly what to and not to do in just eight short hours. He also had the opportunity to interview Governor Tom Wolf and State Representative Pam Snyder while working on different news stories. Through all of his early mornings, McKinney persisted because he said that he loves what he does and that it is worth it when you have a passion for the field of broadcast.

When he reflects on how his experience at Waynesburg helped him prepare for his summer internship, he noted that Lanny Frattare has helped him become the professional he is today.

“I applied to this internship because my advisor, Lanny Frattare, gave me the opportunity, and I knew it would give me tremendous professional experience,” said McKinney. “All of my radio and announcing classes with Lanny helped prepare my voice and my pacing to be an effective broadcaster.”

McKinney’s internship was not exactly what he had expected because he did not think he would be able to be as involved as he was. When thinking about his future endeavors, McKinney speaks highly of his internship with WJPA.

“My internship helped me by showing me how professional radio works,” said McKinney. “I hope to be on television one day reporting the news, and working with news currently can only help.”